Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
Download as docx, pdf, or txt
You are on page 1/ 2
Human Rights
i. Meaning/Definition of Human Rights
Human Rights are the fundamental rights and freedoms that every person is entitled to simply because they are human beings. These rights are universal, inalienable, and apply to all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, or any other status. They form the cornerstone of freedom, justice, and peace in the world.
ii. Characteristics of Human Rights
1. Universal:
o Human rights apply to all people, everywhere in the world,
without exception. They are not bound by geography, culture, or political systems.
o Example: The right to freedom of expression is valid in every
nation.
2. Inalienable:
o These rights cannot be given up, sold, or transferred to
someone else, nor can they be unjustly taken away, except under very specific and lawful conditions (e.g., imprisonment after a fair trial).
o Example: The right to liberty cannot be arbitrarily revoked.
3. Indivisible and Interdependent:
o Human rights are interconnected, meaning that the fulfillment
of one right often depends on the realization of others. They are all equally important and cannot be ranked.
o Example: Access to education (a social right) supports the
right to work and political participation.
4. Equality and Non-Discrimination:
o Every person is entitled to human rights without
discrimination based on race, gender, religion, ethnicity, or any other factor. This ensures fairness and justice.
o Example: Equal pay for equal work is a basic human right.
5. Protective and Empowering:
o Human rights safeguard individuals against abuses by others, especially the state. At the same time, they empower people to demand justice and equal treatment.
o Example: The right to seek legal redress when wronged by the
government.
iii. Categories of Human Rights
1. Civil and Political Rights:
o These rights focus on protecting individual freedoms and
ensuring political participation.
o Examples:
Right to life and liberty.
Freedom of thought, expression, and religion.
Right to a fair trial, equality before the law, and
protection from torture.
2. Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights:
o These rights ensure basic needs are met and promote well- being and dignity.
o Examples:
Right to education and healthcare.
Right to work in safe conditions and earn a fair wage.
Right to participate in cultural life and enjoy the benefits
of scientific progress.
3. Collective Rights:
o These rights apply to groups or communities, addressing
shared interests and ensuring collective well-being.
o Examples:
Right to self-determination (freedom of a people to
determine their political status).
Right to development (equitable access to resources
